How to Write a Fashion Fiction Novel
My three published books: The Manhattan Mishap, Thirteen Emotions, and Too Busy 4 Heartbreak.
As a bonafide—or perhaps self-confessed?—fashionista, it’s only natural that my writing would strut toward the catwalk whenever possible. I’ve tried writing a “normal” novel but somehow outfits and all things style seem to take the runway. I love describing good style. And let’s be real, bad style too. Who remembers Priya and Perla from The Manhattan Mishap? Some of their looks made me cringe. I’d never be caught dead in anything that came from their wardrobes. But that was part of the fun.
In my subsequent books, Thirteen Emotions and Too Busy 4 Heartbreak, fashion also runs wild. That’s not to say that every story is a style-soaked rom-com. While many of them are serious, sorrowful, and downright depressing, the more fashion-forward stories and poems bring a levity as light as tulle to the content.
So, curious about how to write a fashion fiction novel? Let’s get into the pattern drafting part of writing a book.
How to Write a Fashion Fiction Novel
To write a fashion fiction novel, begin by immersing yourself in the world of style, trends, and the culture surrounding fashion. If you don’t already do this, start by picking up some fashion magazines, browsing social media for stylish content, or plonking yourself down at a cafe to people watch. One of my favourite spots for the latter is Community Goods off of Melrose. Look for style in everything you see. Start to romanticize.
Create vivid, relatable characters whose lives are intertwined with the fashion industry, whether as designers, models, or influencers. Or maybe magazine editors! In my upcoming novel, the main character works for Pat McGrath. She’s technically in the beauty industry but is simultaneously surrounded by fashion. She lives for thrifty designer finds and takes pride in her Gucci horsebit bag from Depop.
Develop a compelling plot that balances personal drama, career ambitions, and the ever-changing dynamics of the fashion scene. Although it wasn’t so much about the “fashion scene” per se, The Manhattan Mishap definitely combined a lot of personal drama with career ambitions. It just so happened that Margot Moss, the book’s fashion-forward leading lady, was fashion obsessed.
Use descriptive language that captures textures, colours, and designs to bring the wardrobe and settings to life. Incorporate themes of identity, creativity, and competition to add depth, while maintaining a strong narrative pace that keeps readers engaged. (By the way: anyone who thinks The Manhattan Mishap’s engagaing drama was too dramatic never grew up in a Hispanic household.)
Research industry jargon and insider experiences to lend authenticity, and weave in romantic or friendship elements to appeal to fans of chick lit and contemporary fiction. Want to know why I write chick lit and fashion fiction? This post has all the answers.
My next fashion fiction novel is a bubbling Christmas rom-com called The Fashion Girl Goes Home. I’ll be publishing whenever Mariah Carey says “it’s tiiime” next year. Stay tuned. And until then, stay stylish.
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